TWO railway level crossings have been upgraded with the latest technology at a cost of nearly £1 million.

The crossings, between Lydney Junction Station and the town centre, were handed over last week to the Dean Forest Railway (DFC).

One of the crossings is located where the DFC’s track crosses the busy A48 town bypass, and the other is on Harbour Road.

They are more than 20 years old and were in need of an upgrade to modernise them, which will mean both railway and road users can now benefit from the latest technology to make sure they continue to be reliable, safe and convenient for all.

The county council has provided more than £900,000 in funding for the modernisation of the council-owned crossings, which are operated and maintained on the council’s behalf by the heritage railway.

The work has now been completed, with the handover from contractor Schweizer Electronic taking place along with training for railway staff.

Cllr Nigel Moor, cabinet member responsible for public transport, said, “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to fund this work and I’m grateful to the Dean Forest Railway for managing the project and continuing to operate and maintain the crossings.”

Local county councillor Alan Preest (Con, Lydney) said: “I’m really pleased that this work has been completed, so the crossings can continue to serve the railway and road users for many more years to come.

“The Dean Forest Railway, along with its link with the main railway line at Lydney is a vital element in the tourism economy of the Forest of Dean”.

Duncan Rowe, DFR general manager, said, “This has been a real team effort. The involvement of both Gloucestershire County Council and Schweizer Electronic has been vital for the successful completion of this project which will provide many operational benefits for the railway and road users alike.

“I’d particularly like to thank our volunteers; without their passion and enthusiasm this work and the continued operation of the railway would not be possible.”

The bypass crossing is just below the site of the 126-year-old wrought-iron St Mary’s footbridge, which crosses the track from the boating lake to the churchyard, and which is currently being fully restored after being dismantled in the summer.